Coke Responds to Bloomberg: Americans Can Make ‘Own Choices’

The Coca-Cola Company thinks New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg isn't giving his citizens much credit.

In a statement issued today after Bloomberg and the Health Department announced a proposal to ban sugary drinks from delis and small restaurants, Coke said it has never tried to hide its calorie-counts from consumers, and that New Yorkers can make their own choices.

Bloomberg proposed the ban as a way to combat a growing obesity epidemic.

Here is the statement in full:

“The people of New York City are much smarter than the New York City Health Department believes. We are transparent with our consumers. They can see exactly how many calories are in every beverage we serve. We have prominently placed calorie counts on the front of our bottles and cans and in New York City, restaurants already post the calorie content of all their offerings and portion sizes -- including soft drinks.

"New Yorkers expect and deserve better than this. They can make their own choices about the beverages they purchase. We hope New Yorkers loudly voice their disapproval about this arbitrary mandate.”